Dynamic Crushing of Unidirectionally Reinforced Metal Matrix Composite

The strain rate-dependent response of Al2O3/Al composite is examined using a split-Hopkinson pressure bar apparatus. High-speed photography is used to establish that the strain develops inhomogeneously in the specimen due to the onset and propagation of a kink band. The power balance equation is exploited in order to determine the dissipation at the kink band. The mechanism of kink band is shown to be essentially unaltered, with only the amount of fibre fracture being influenced by the dynamic loading process.